Hartigan Leads Athletic Training Efforts as Preseason Kicks Off at LC

GODFREY, IL - As fall preseason ramps up for Lewis and Clark Community College athletics, athletic trainer Kayla Hartigan is already deep into preparation for a demanding year that spans eight sports and three seasons.

Hartigan's work starts long before the first whistle. She organizes and stocks her office, coordinates with coaches, and ensures preseason paperwork is complete, all while mapping out her schedule for the months ahead.

"Structure is essential, but you also have to be adaptable to each team and season as they are all unique," Hartigan said.

With three teams launching their seasons simultaneously in the fall, Hartigan's days begin early and end late. She preps water, rehab stations and taping supplies before the first athletes arrive, then manages waves of practices, treatments, and recovery sessions. Between ice baths, compression boots, and injury evaluations, she keeps meticulous records to track progress throughout the year.

Efficiency is critical when multiple teams are in season at once. Hartigan prioritizes by teaching athletes to handle small tasks themselves, such as preparing a hot pack or starting rehab routines, allowing her to focus on more complex needs.

She also works to prevent the most common preseason setbacks: heavy legs, fatigue, and soreness, through education on recovery methods, from proper sleep and hydration to foam rolling and active recovery sessions.
For Hartigan, the relationships she builds with athletes outweigh the long hours and physical demands.

"Although they may not know it, I care deeply for each and every one of them and want them to be the best athlete and human they can be," she said.

As the school year unfolds, Hartigan will continue balancing treatment, prevention, and performance support across fall, winter, and spring sports, making her an essential part of Lewis and Clark Community College's pursuit of athletic success.

Written by Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator, Lewis and Clark Community College